Our frequent readers know how much we love TED. They promote and curate some truly incredible thought leaders and content, so shoutout to TED for being so great! You can find our list of Must-See TED Talks here! But back to potatoes…

It’s amazing the kind of impact this mundane kitchen staple has had on our lives, aside from satisfying our cravings for the salty and savory (they’re also a great fix for sweet cravings, I’ve made some awesome chocolate truffles from leftover mashed potatoes).

They’re a reminder that the smallest items and occurrences in our life can have the biggest change. Smiling at someone on the train or performing any other small act of kindness may seem like nothing to you but it may completely change the outlook of someone’s day.

Potatoes come in all shapes, sizes, and colors from the well known Russett to the Red Thumb and we love them all. Maybe they can serve as a lesson for all of us. A reminder that we’re all fantastic even when our skin has different shades and marks and our bodies form into thinner or rounder shapes. We’re all wonderful in the multitude of ways we are made and prepared.

If there’s anything that the history of time has shown us, it’s that beautiful changes and advances are made when we appreciate and unite what each of us uniquely offers.

So, find the beauty in what surrounds you, and remember, it’s still an amazing world out there.

Ever thought of yourself as a chemist? Well, if you have ever baked, or critiqued the results of a baker, you might just be the best chemist in your house! There’s fascinatingly fun science in those holiday cookies!